Losing a pet can be profoundly emotional, and you need support to get through its devastating impact on your life. Pets provide unconditional love, companionship, and joy, so their absence is profoundly felt. If you’re coping with pet loss, getting over your grief will require time, patience, and self-compassion. Our Livingston Veterinary Hospital team strongly empathizes with you and is here to offer help navigating the grieving process and honor your cherished companion’s memory.

Allow yourself to grieve your pet

After losing a pet, you naturally want to get on with life and keep busy to avoid feeling the loss. However, experiencing a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and loneliness, is normal. Grieving is a personal journey, with no right or wrong way. Give yourself permission to mourn your loss without self-judgment. As the saying goes, the only way out is through. 

Find pet loss support

Contact friends, family, or grief support groups who understand the bond you shared with your pet. Sharing memories and emotions with others who have experienced similar losses can provide comfort and validation and alleviate any feelings of isolation. There’s strength in numbers.

Create a pet memorial

Honoring your pet’s memory can give you solace. Some ideas to memorialize your pet include:

  • Planting a tree or flowers in their memory 
  • Crafting a photo album or scrapbook 
  • Commissioning a piece of artwork or jewelry
  • Volunteering at a local animal rescue
  • Donating to a favorite cause in your pet’s name
  • Holding a small gathering as a ceremony to say goodbye
  • Writing a letter to your cherished pet
  • Creating a poem or piece of art that reflects your pet

Practice self-care after losing your pet

Sometimes when you are grieving, engaging in everyday life seems too difficult, but self-care is essential. Engage in activities that bring comfort and relaxation, such as spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, staying active through gentle exercise, or immersing yourself in a favorite book or hobby. Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest to help you get through this emotionally turbulent time. 

Honor your own feelings after losing your pet

Allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment. Remember that healing takes time, and moments of sadness or grief are normal, even after some time has passed. Be kind to yourself during your ups and downs.

Spend time with animals

When words cannot express how you feel, animals can help. They will intuitively respond to your emotions and help soothe and comfort you. Whether you watch birds or wildlife, foster a shelter pet, or pet-sit for a friend, time with animals can be uplifting. 

Consider professional pet loss counseling

If you’re struggling to cope with losing your pet, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance, validation, and individual coping strategies. Also, many online and in-person grief support groups exist. Every group member is suffering through a similar event and sharing stories with people who understand can help you feel better—and perhaps share laughter. 

Losing a pet is a profound experience that can leave a lasting impact. By honoring your feelings, seeking support, and finding meaningful ways to memorialize your pet, you will get through the grieving process—but you’ll never get over your pet.

Our Livingston Veterinary Hospital team understands the effect of pet loss and we are here for you. Contact our team if you would like additional guidance and pet loss support.